Madison County, NC
History
The county was formed in 1851 from parts of Buncombe and Yancey Counties. It was named for James Madison, fourth president of the United States (1809–1817). The first court was held at Adolphus Beard’s tavern until a courthouse was erected. When its location was chosen, the town of Marshall was also established on the spot.Marshall, N.C., named after Chief Justice John Marshall, remains Madison’s county seat. Other important locations include Mars Hill College, a historical Baptist college established in 1856, and Hot Springs, a popular hot springs tourist attraction located at the junction of the Appalachian Trail and the French Broad River.